Fears Moves to Bench as Jones Returns to Pelicans' Starting Lineup

Jeremiah Fears will not start Friday's game against the Grizzlies, sliding to the bench as Herbert Jones (ankle) returns to the starting lineup for the New Orleans Pelicans. This marks the first time the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft will come off the bench since the season's opening two games. In his prior two reserve appearances, Fears averaged 15.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.0 steals in 23.5 minutes per contest.